Actisense NGX-1-ISO User manual

1Active Research Ltd 2023
Connect without limits
Issue 1.0
NGX-1-ISO
NGX-1-USB
NMEA 2000 Gateway
Install / User manual

2Active Research Ltd 2023
European Union
The full text of the EU declaration of conformity is available at the following internet address:
https://www.actisense.com/acti_download/NGX-1-declaration-of-conformity
Hereby, Active Research Ltd declares that the NGX-1 is in compliance with the essential requirements and other relevant provisions of
Directive 2014/53/EU.
Active Research Ltd tímto prohlašuje, že tento NGX-1 je ve shodě se základními požadavky a dalšími příslušnými ustanoveními směr-
nice 2014/53/EU.
Undertegnede, Active Research Ltd erklærer herved, at følgende udstyr NGX-1 overholder de væsentlige krav og øvrige relevante krav i
direktiv 2014/53/EU.
Hiermit erklärt, Active Research Ltd dass sich das Gerät NGX-1 in Übereinstimmung mit den grundlegenden Anforderungen und den
übrigen einschlägigen Bestimmungen der Richtlinie 2014/53/EU bendet.
Käesolevaga kinnitab, Active Research Ltd seadme NGX-1 vastavust direktiivi 2014/53/EL põhinõuetele ja nimetatud direktiivist tulene-
vatele teistele asjakohastele sätetele.
Por medio de la presente Active Research Ltd declara que el NGX-1 cumple con los requisitos esenciales y cualesquiera otras disposi-
ciones aplicables o exigibles de la Directiva 2014/53/UE.
ΜΕ ΤΗΝ ΠΑΡΟΥΣΑ, Active Research Ltd ΔΗΛΩΝΕΙ ΟΤΙ NGX-1 ΣΥΜΜΟΡΦΩΝΕΤΑΙ ΠΡΟΣ ΤΙΣ ΟΥΣΙΩΔΕΙΣ ΑΠΑΙΤΗΣΕΙΣ ΚΑΙ ΤΙΣ ΛΟΙΠΕΣ
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΕΣ ΔΙΑΤΑΞΕΙΣ ΤΗΣ ΟΔΗΓΙΑΣ 2014/53/ΕE.
Par la présente, Active Research Ltd déclare que l’appareil NGX-1 est conforme aux exigences essentielles et aux autres
dispositions pertinentes de la directive 2014/53/UE.
Con la presente, Active Research Ltd dichiara che questo NGX-1 è conforme ai requisiti essenziali ed alle altre disposizioni pertinenti
stabilite dalla direttiva 2014/53/UE.
Ar šo Active Research Ltd deklarē, ka NGX-1 atbilst Direktīvas 2014/53/ES būtiskajām prasībām un citiem ar to saistītajiem noteikumi-
em.
Šiuo Active Research Ltd deklaruoja, kad šis NGX-1 atitinka esminius reikalavimus ir kitas 2014/53/ES Direktyvos nuostatas.
Hierbij verklaart , Active Research Ltd dat het toestel NGX-1 in overeenstemming is met de essentiële eisen en de andere relevante
bepalingen van richtlijn 2014/53/EU.
Hawnhekk, Active Research Ltd, jiddikjara li dan NGX-1 jikkonforma mal-ħtiġijiet essenzjali u ma provvedimenti oħrajn relevanti li hemm
d-Dirrettiva 2014/53/UE.
Alulírott, Active Research Ltd nyilatkozom, hogy a NGX-1 megfelel a vonatkozó alapvetõ követelményeknek és az 2014/53/EU irányelv
egyéb elõírásainak.
Niniejszym Active Research Ltd oświadcza, że NGX-1 jest zgodny z zasadniczymi wymogami oraz pozostałymi stosownymi postanow-
ieniami Dyrektywy 2014/53/UE.
Active Research Ltd declara que este NGX-1 está conforme com os requisitos essenciais e outras disposições da Directiva 2014/53/
UE.
Active Research Ltd izjavlja, da je ta NGX-1 v skladu z bistvenimi zahtevami in ostalimi relevantnimi določili direktive 2014/53/EU.
Active Research Ltd týmto vyhlasuje, že NGX-1 spĺňa základné požiadavky a všetky príslušné ustanovenia Smernice 2014/53/EÚ.
Active Research Ltd vakuuttaa täten että NGX-1 tyyppinen laite on direktiivin 2014/53/EU oleellisten vaatimusten ja sitä
koskevien direktiivin muiden ehtojen mukainen.
Härmed intygar Active Research Ltd att denna NGX-1 står I överensstämmelse med de väsentliga egenskapskrav och
övriga relevanta bestämmelser som framgår av direktiv 2014/53/EU.
Hér með lýsir Active Research Ltd yr því að NGX-1 er í samræmi við grunnkröfur og aðrar kröfur, sem gerðar eru í tilski-
pun 2014/53/EU.
Active Research Ltd erklærer herved at utstyret NGX-1 er i samsvar med de grunnleggende krav og øvrige relevante krav i
direktiv 2014/53/EU.
Noi, Active Research Ltd, declarăm pe propria noastră răspundere că produsul NGX-1 este în conformitate cu cerinţele
esenţiale şi celelalte prevederi aplicabile ale Directivei 2014/53/UE

3Active Research Ltd 2023
NGX-1 NMEA 2000 Gateway
Contents Page
• Important notices.............................................................................................................4
• Installationwarnings........................................................................................................5
• Regulatory & Safety Notices............................................................................................6
• AbouttheNGX-1...........................................................................................................................7
• Modes Explained
• NGX-1 variants
• Powering the NGX-1.........................................................................................................8
• Connecting to a USB port
• USB Driver Installation
• Connecting to an NMEA 2000 Network
• Actisense Software
• Minimum NMEA 2000 network requirements..................................................................9
• Connecting to an NGX-1-ISO...................................................................................10-12
• Connecting to an NMEA 0183 device
• Connecting to an RS-422 USB-Serial converter (USG-2 or similar)
• Connecting to an RS-232 USB-Serial Device
• Connecting to a 9-pin D-type socket
• Connecting to a Raymarine SeaTalkNG network
• Installing an NGX-1-ISO to an NMEA 0183 device(Convert Mode)...........................13
• Installing an NMEA0183 device @ 4,800 baud : Standard Conversions.
• Installing an NMEA0183 device @ 38,400 baud : AIS Conversions
• Installing an NGX-1-USB as an NMEA 2000 Gateway(Transfer Mode)....................14
• Swapping between modes of operation (Transfer <-> Convert).......................................15
• Baud rate alteration using NMEA Reader.........................................................................16-17
• Conversion alterations using Actisense Toolkit.............................................................18-19
• Conguring Rx & Tx conversions.............................................................................................20
• Firmware updates using Toolkit..............................................................................................21
• Manual installation of Firmware updates.............................................................................22
• LED behaviour & troubleshooting...........................................................................................23
• Returnsprocedure.....................................................................................................................24
• Technical Specications...........................................................................................................25
• Dimensional drawing.................................................................................................................26

4Active Research Ltd 2023
Important Notices
Trademarks and Registered Trademarks
Actisense®and the Actisense logo are registered
trademarks of Active Research Limited (Ltd).
All other trademarks are the property of their
respective owners.
The NMEA®name and NMEA logo are copyright
held by the NMEA. All uses in this manual are
by permission and no claim on the right to the
NMEA name or logo are made in this manual.
Fair Use Statement
The contents of this manual may not be
transferred or copied without the express written
permission of Active Research Ltd. Copyright ©
2023 Active Research Ltd. All rights reserved.
Technical Accuracy
To the best of our knowledge the information
contained in this document was correct at the
time it was produced. Active Research Ltd cannot
accept liability for any inaccuracies or omissions.
The products described in this manual and the
specications thereof may be changed without
prior notice. Active Research Ltd cannot accept
any liability for differences between the product
and this document. To check for updated
information and specications please check
www.actisense.com.
Active Research Ltd will not be liable for
infringement of copyright, industrial property
rights, or other rights of a third party caused by
the use of information or drawings described in
this manual.
Product Registration
Please register your product via the online form
at www.actisense.com/support/prodreg.
Your product package includes a unit serial
number. The serial number is six digits long and
can be found below the barcode on the label.
Your registration will assist Actisense Support to
link your product to your details, simplifying any
future assistance you may require.
Product Guarantee
All Actisense products are provided with a 3 year
guarantee as standard. To activate the 5-year
guarantee offered with this product please
complete product registration online at www.
actisense.com/support/prodreg.
If you suspect that the unit is faulty please
refer to the Troubleshooting Section of the User
Manual before contacting support.
It is a requirement of the guarantee that all
installations of electronic equipment follow
the NMEA 0400 specication. Any connection
to a battery or power supply must meet the
mandatory essential safety requirements that
may be imposed by local regulatory agencies.
Actisense products are intended for use in a
marine environment, primarily for below deck
use. If a product is to be used in a more severe
environment, such use may be considered
misuse under the Active Research Ltd guarantee.
Product Disposal
Please consider the environment when disposing
of this product.It should be disposed of
according to the European WEEE Directive, or
according to the applicable local regulations for
the disposal of electrical equipment
The product packaging is recyclable.
All features and specications may change
without notice.

5Active Research Ltd 2023
Installation Warnings
Warning 1: Accuracy
The Actisense NGX-1 is designed to reliably transfer NMEA 2000 PGNs bi-directionally between a PC
and the NMEA 2000 bus, or convert NMEA 0183 data bi-directionally between an 0183 device and
the NMEA 2000 bus, according to the published conversion lists. Furthermore, for each installation
requirement, the NGX-1 must be congured correctly by the software application. The NGX-1 should
only be used as an aid to vessel monitoring, control or navigation and should not be used as a re-
placement for traditional aids and techniques.
Warning 2: Installation and Operation
This product must be installed and operated in accordance with the instructions provided. Failure to
do so could result in personal injury, damage to your boat and/or poor product performance.
Warning 3: Installation Code of Practice
When wiring the power supply to the NGX-1 ensure the isolation switch is off. Wiring the NGX-1 while
the connection is live may damage the NGX-1 and is in breach of the guarantee. Any connection to
a battery or power supply must meet the mandatory essential safety requirements that may be im-
posed by local regulatory agencies, this should include suitable fusing.
All wiring should be in accordance with the requirements of the NMEA 0400 installation specication
Warning 4: Firmware Updates
It is highly recommended that the Firmware is kept up to date on the NGX-1. The latest rmware
version number and details of supporting software such as NMEA Reader can be found on the NGX-1
downloads web page. You can check the rmware version currently installed in your NGX-1 by lo-
cating the manufacturers software ID on the network list found in most NMEA 2000 MFDs or NMEA
Reader.
Warning 5: Mounting Requirements
Do not mount the NGX-1 while the device is powered.
Do not mount the NGX-1 while the NMEA 2000 cable is connected.
Do not mount the NGX-1 while the PC cable is connected.
Warning 6: Mounting Locations
Select a at location to mount the NGX-1. Mounting on a contoured surface may cause damage to
the case. Do not mount the NGX-1 in the same plane as transmitting or receiving antennas.
Do not mount the NGX-1 close to an electronic compass. If the device to which this manual relates is
to be installed within ve metres of a compass, please refer to the ‘Compass Safe Distance’ section
in the technical specications at the end of this manual.
This device should not be operated within 20cm of a human body.
To avoid potential injury, it should be mounted at a height of less than 2m from oor level.
• All warnings and notices must be followed to ensure the
correct operation of the NGX-1.
• Incorrect installation may invalidate the guarantee. It is
highly recommended that all of the installation instructions
are read before commencing the installation.
• There are important warnings and notes throughout the
manual that should be considered before the installation is
attempted.
NGX-1 NMEA 2000 Gateway

6Active Research Ltd 2023
Regulatory & Safety Notices
USA: Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Statement
This device complies with FCC part 15 FCC Rules.Operation is subject to the following two condi-
tions:
1. This device may not cause harmful interference.
2. This device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired
operation of the device.
FCC Warning
Changes or modications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void
the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital
device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable pro-
tection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and
can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions,
may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that inter-
ference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to
radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user
is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is con-
nected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
This device meets the FCC and IC requirements for RF exposure in public or uncontrolled environ-
ments.
Canada: Industry Canada (IC) Statement
IC Notice to Users English/French in accordance with RSS GEN Issue 3:
This device complies with Industry Canada license exempt RSS standard(s).
Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
1. This device may not cause interference, and
2. This device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired
operation of the device.
Cet appareil est conforme avec Industrie Canada RSS standard exempts de licence(s). Son utilisation
est soumise à Les deux conditions suivantes:
1. cet appareil ne peut pas provoquer d’interférences et
2. cet appareil doit accepter Toute interférence, y compris les interférences qui peuvent causer un
mauvais fonctionnement du dispositive
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada

7Active Research Ltd 2023
NGX-1 NMEA 2000 Gateway
About the NGX-1
The NGX-1 from Actisense is an NMEA certied device which can operate in two distinct modes,
depending on user requirements.
Transfer Mode : NMEA 2000 to PC interface(ISO or USB variant)
or
Convert Mode : NMEA 0183 <-> NMEA2000 bi-directional converter(ISO or USB variant)
Modes explained
In Transfer Mode, (Status = ) the NGX-1 operates as an NMEA 2000 to PC interface, providing
an easy way to link a PC to an NMEA 2000 network. In this mode it makes it possible for software
applications to read and write to an NMEA 2000 bus while maintaining network integrity.
In Convert Mode, (Status = ) the NGX-1 operates as a data converter, allowing the older NMEA
0183 networks & equipment to co-exist with modern NMEA 2000 networks. It provides a
bi-directional facility allowing NMEA 0183 sentences to be converted into NMEA 2000 PGN messag-
es, and vice-versa. A default set of conversions is pre-congured which covers most standard conver-
sion requirements (including AIS conversion from NMEA 0183 to NMEA 2000).
To adjust these conversions (e.g. to congure fast heading or bi-directional AIS) please see page xx
for more details.
Note: Not all PGN messages have an equivalent NMEA 0183 sentence. Many NMEA 2000 PGN’s
have been created and have not been not been transferred back to the NMEA 0183 standard. Please
see the conversion list on our website - www.actisense.com.
NGX-1 Variants
ISO Variant (NGX-1-ISO):
The NGX-1-ISO is supplied with a 0.75m NMEA 0183 4-wire “differential pair” cable for connecting
directly to NMEA 0183 equipment. NMEA standard wire colours are applied.
This allows for the NGX-1-ISO to be installed directly to an NMEA 0183 device without the need for
further set-up in most circumstances.
USB Variant (NGX-1-USB):
The NGX-1-USB is supplied with a 1.8m USB cable (USB plug type B) for direct connection to a PC or
laptop.
This allows the NGX-1-USB to interface with compatible apps. on a PC and run directly without the
need for further set-up in most circumstances.

8Active Research Ltd 2023
Powering the NGX-1
Both variants of the NGX-1 (ISO & USB) receive power supply when connected to a correctly powered
and terminated NMEA 2000 backbone. See page 9 for the minimum bus requirements.
Note: Make sure that the blue ‘Power’ LED is illuminated for correct operation of the NGX-1. See LED
behaviour table on page 23.
Connecting to a USB Port
For USB variants of the NGX-1, simply plug the USB cable on the NGX-1 in to a PC USB port and the USB
driver installation will begin. For ISO variants of the NGX-1, a USB to serial converter cable can be used
to connect to a PC USB port. For wiring the NGX-ISO cable refer to the instructions given on pages 11
& 12.
USB Driver Installation
Windows 7, 8, 10 & 11 will automatically install the drivers from Windows Update if there is an active
Internet connection the rst time the NGX-1 is plugged in. If the PC is not connected to the Internet or
if the USB driver does not install automatically on the rst installation of the NGX-1, the ‘Update Driver
Software’ option in Device Manager will need to be used to install the USB drivers manually. Please visit
the Actisense website at www.actisense.com to download the latest drivers should they be required.
Connecting to an NMEA 2000 network
The diagrams on page 9 show how each of the NGX-1 variants sit on an NMEA 2000 network.
NGX-1-ISO
The most common use case for the NGX-1-ISO is as an NMEA 0183 <-> NMEA 2000 converter.
In this situation, the NGX-1-ISO is wired directly into an NMEA 0183 device allowing data to pass
through the NGX-1, be converted, and then be placed directly onto the NMEA 2000 bus. The data-ow
is bi-directional allowing NMEA 2000 PGN’s to be converted back to the NMEA 0183 device if required.
Note: The NGX-1-ISO may require some additional set-up to allows the bi-directional
conversion of AIS sentences. This uses our free Toolkit software, and requires access to a
serial-USB converter. Additionally, conguration can be accomplished using an Actisense
NGT-1-USB if available.
Connecting the ISO-wires with a serial-USB converter also allows a direct connection to a PC/laptop. In
this situation, the NGX-1-ISO can utilise both modes of operation (Transfer or Convert).
NGX-1-USB
The most common use case for the NGX-1-USB is as an NMEA 2000 to PC interface (Transfer mode),
allowing a compatible PC application to interact with an NMEA 2000 network. It can however be placed
into ‘Convert’ mode should you wish to convert NMEA 2000 data back into NMEA 0183 to be viewed on
any PC application which utilises NMEA 0183 (eg. OpenCPN).
Actisense Software
Actisense supplies the following free software which will be required to congure the NGX-1 into the
required state.
• NMEA reader
• Actisense Toolkit
• Please visit https://actisense.com/nmea-software/ to download this software.

9Active Research Ltd 2023
NGX-1 NMEA 2000 Gateway
NGX-1-ISO connection to an NMEA 2000 network
NGX-1-USB connection to an NMEA 2000 network
NMEA 2000 Minimum Network Requirement
All NMEA 2000 networks require a 12V DC supply. In addition, a correctly functioning network will
require the following components as a minimum:
• 1x Power T
• 2x Termination resistors
• 2x T-Pieces(one per connected device)
• 2x NMEA 2000 Devices (Such as an MFD & NGX-1)
Power Tap
(A2K-MPT-2)
T-Piece
(A2K-T-MFF)
T-Piece
(A2K-T-MFF)
Terminator
(A2K-TER-M)
Terminator
(A2K-TER-M)
Example Device
Example Device

10 Active Research Ltd 2023
Connecting to an NGX-1-ISO
There are several ways which the NGX-1-ISO can be connected, but the most common requirement will
be to integrate an NMEA 0183 device to an NMEA 2000 network.
The NGX-1-ISO communicates using the RS-422 protocol which requires that data is sent and received
using two pairs of wires. These are often termed as a “differential” pair.
The two pairs of wires are normally designated as:
• Talker pair (A+ / B-): This is the pair over which data is sent from an NMEA 0183 device.
• Listener Pair (A+ / B-): This is the pair over which the device receives NMEA 0183 data.
Currently, the specied NMEA 0183 signal colour coding for individual wires is as follows:
• Talker (A/+) -WHITE
• Talker (B/-) - BROWN
• Listener (A/+) - YELLOW
• Listener (B/-) - GREEN
The wiring on the NGX-1-ISO follows the above convention for the data pairs, and if followed, should
make wiring NMEA 0183 devices which have the same colour coding easier to achieve. Please refer to
the instructions of the device which you are connecting to your NGX-1 for more details.
The following diagrams show how to connect to the most popular devices:
A- Connect to an NMEA 0183 Device
Connect the NGX-1-ISO as shown in the diagram overleaf. If the device conforms to the NMEA 0183
standard, it should have the appropriate talker (A/+ & B/-) and listener (A/+ & B/-) pair clearly marked.
Consult the manual or contact the manufacturer if unsure.
B- Connect to a PC with an Actisense USG-2. USB to Serial Gateway (RS-422)
Should you require to connect your NGX-1-ISO to a PC, you can attach an RS-422-Serial converter such
as the Actisense USG-2.(https://actisense.com/products/usg-2-nmea-0183-converter/)
Note: To communicate with your NGX-1, select the USG-2 COM port displayed in “Device Manager”
C- Connect to a PC using and RS-232 Serial to USB converter
The NGX-1-ISO can also be connected to an RS-232 Serial converter if required. There are many such
devices available and the diagram depicts a standard general outline only. The two B/- wires are
connected together at a common ground.
Note: To communicate with your NGX-1, select the COM port for the converter in “Device Manager”
D- Connect to a serial port using a D-TYPE 9-pin socket
The NGX-1-ISO can also be connected to the older D-type 9 pin serial port should you wish to connect
it directly into a serial port card on your PC. The serial connection is RS-232 and the two B/- wires are
connected together at a common ground (pin 5).

11 Active Research Ltd 2023
NGX-1 NMEA 2000 Gateway
Connecting to an NGX-1-ISO (contd)
RS-422
RS-232
A
B
C
Select correct COM port for USG-2
Select correct COM port for USB-Serial Converter
<
<
<
<
<
<
<
<
<
<

12 Active Research Ltd 2023
Connecting to an NGX-1-ISO (contd)
A/+
A/+
B/-
>>>> Data Flow >>>>
<<<< Data Flow <<<<
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
D
9-pin D-type Connector
<
<
Raymarine’s SeaTalkNG network uses exactly the same data as a standard NMEA 2000 network. The
only difference is the physical network connections. To connect any standard NMEA 2000 device (like
the NGX-1) to an STNG network, simply use an NMEA 2000 to STNG adapter cable (product code:
STNG-A06045) between the device and the STNG network.
Connecting to a Raymarine SeaTalkNG Network

13 Active Research Ltd 2023
NGX-1 NMEA 2000 Gateway
Connecting an NGX-1-ISO to an NMEA 0183 device (Convert Mode)
The NGX-1-ISO is shipped with a default conguration to allow for an easy set-up when installing to
devices running at either of the two common baud rates (4,800 or 38,400).
The default mode is set to ‘Convert’ (Status = )
The default baud rate is set to 4,800 allowing devices outputting at this speed to be installed quickly.
Autobaud
Auto baud is a feature which allows the NGX-1-ISO to automatically detect the rate of the incoming
data and adjust itself accordingly. For example, connection to an NMEA 0183 talker outputting data
at 38,400 baud will force the NGX-1 (after a delay of approximately 15 seconds) to accept data at that
speed. As mentioned above, the device accepts data at 4,800 baud by default.
The NGX-1 will auto-baud to any baud rate between 4,800 and 230,400 baud in ‘Convert’ mode. This
allows the NGX to automatically adjust to any commonly used baud rates without the need for any
further conguration.
The NGX can be switched to ‘Transfer’ mode to transfer NMEA 2000 data to PC. Supported PC appli-
cations (e.g. Actisense NMEA Reader, Supported Chartplotter Apps etc.) will automatically change
the NGX-1 into ‘Transfer’ mode. In ‘transfer’ mode it will use 115,200 by default but will autobaud to
230,400 to allow ‘Transfer’ of all PGN’s even on a busy NMEA 2000 bus.
The baud rate can be manually changed and the NGX-1 will remember the last used baud rate for
each mode.
To connect an NGX-1-ISO to an NMEA 0183 device please follow these steps (also see page 9):
• Make sure the NMEA 0183 device is powered off before commencing wiring.
• Connect the NGX-1-ISO to an NMEA 0183 device using wiring diagram Ashown on page 11. Please
consult the instruction manual for the 0183 device if unsure.
• Connect the M12 5-pin connector to a spare port on the NMEA 2000 network. We do recommend a
suitable truck-drop cable to attach to the NMEA 2000 bus if available.
• Power-on the NMEA 0183 device, and make sure that the NMEA 2000 network is also powered, and
correctly terminated(see page 9).
• NGX-1-ISO will begin converting NMEA 0183 sentences into NMEA 2000 PGN’s and these will be
placed onto the NMEA 2000 network.
• PLEASE NOTE: While the NMEA 0183 AIS Rx sentences (VDM & VDO) are switched on and are
passed through the NGX-1 for conversion to NMEA 2000 PGN’s, AIS Tx sentences are switched
off by default. This is done to prevent AIS PGN’s from being converted back to NMEA 0183 at the
slower baud rate of 4,800, which would limit the bandwidth for other required sentences being
transmitted at 4,800 baud.
• Please see page 18 & 19 for using Actisense Toolkit for applying the NMEA 0183 Tx conversions
if they are required.

14 Active Research Ltd 2023
Installing an NGX-1-USB as an NMEA 2000 Gateway (Transfer Mode)
The NGX-1-USB variant has been developed to primarily operate as an NMEA 2000 gateway to trans-
fer NMEA 2000 data to supported PC applications (such as navigation apps)
• Automatically switches to ‘Transfer’ mode on connection to a compatible app on a PC.
• Baud rate switches to 115,200 by default on connection to an compatible app on a PC.
This allows the NGX-1-USB to interface with compatible apps. on a PC/laptop and run directly without
the need for further set-up in most circumstances.
To install an NGX-1-USB to a PC/Laptop please follow these steps (also see page 9)
• Connect the M12 5-pin connector to a spare port on the NMEA 2000 network. An extension trunk-
drop cable may be required iPlug the USB cable into a spare USB port on the PC / Laptop.
• Drivers should install automatically, but if they do not, please see the note on page 8 regarding
driver installation.
• Open the required compatible app. (NMEA reader, Navagation apps etc) on the PC / laptop.
• Select the correct COM port for the NGX-1-USB as reported in the device manager.
• Make any other adjustments within the software as required.

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NGX-1 NMEA 2000 Gateway
Swapping between modes of operation ( Transfer <-> Convert )
The NGX-1 has been designed to cater for most use cases that will occur in a marine environment
which relate to NMEA 0183 & NMEA 2000 data transfer and / or conversion.
• By default the NGX-1 is set to ‘Convert’ mode allowing immediate bi-directional conversions from
NMEA 0183 sentences to NMEA 2000 PGN’s.
• The NGX-1 will auto-baud to any baud rate between 4,800 and 230,400 baud in ‘Convert’ mode.
This allows the NGX to automatically adjust to any commonly used baud rates without the need
for any further conguration.
The NGX can be switched to ‘Transfer’ mode to transfer NMEA 2000 data to PC. Supported PC appli-
cations (e.g. Actisense NMEA Reader, Supported Chartplotter Apps etc.) will automatically change
the NGX-1 into ‘Transfer’ mode. In ‘transfer’ mode it will use 115,200 by default but will autobaud to
230,400 to allow ‘Transfer’ of all PGN’s even on a busy NMEA 2000 bus.
The baud rate can be manually changed and the NGX-1 will remember the last used baud rate for
each mode.
Note: If a PC application has switched the NGX-1 into ‘Transfer’ mode, it can easily be switched back
into ‘Convert’ mode by either:
• Power cycling
• Using NMEA reader
• Using Actisense Toolkit
Altering the modes is achieved using the NMEA Reader software which can be downloaded from our
website using the link on page 8. See page 16 for details of connecting to NMEA Reader.
NMEA Reader provides a drop-down box which allows either mode to be selected as shown below.
You simply need to toggle between whichever mode is required.(Undened & Transfer Normal n/a)
Transition between each mode is shown by the status light changing to either or (ashing)
In addition to a change of Mode, the baud rate may also require alteration. This can achieved using
the instructions overleaf.

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Manual baud rate alteration with NMEA Reader
Please download and install NMEA Reader from the Actisense website using the link below. Please
ensure that you download the version applicable to your OS (64-bit or 32-bit).
• https://actisense.com/acti_software/nmea-reader/
• Run NMEA Reader and select the USG-serial converter connected to the NGX-1-ISO.
• Select the “Network View” tab at the bottom of the window to display all attached devices
• The NGX-1-ISO should now be displayed as the only device on the network, with the default
conguration of 4,800 baud and set to Convert’ mode.
•
• Select the “Hardware Cong” tab at the bottom of the window to change the baud rate.
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NGX-1 NMEA 2000 Gateway
Manual baud rate alteration with NMEA Reader (cont’d)
• To change the baud rate, select the required baud rate (38,400 for an AIS device) from the drop-
down menu and click “Apply”
• After a short delay (approx.20 Seconds) the baud rate of the NGX-1-ISO will be changed to the
desired baud rate, and this change will be reected on the display as shown below. The mode of the
NGX-1-ISO will remain in ‘Convert’ as before. “Device being congured” will show as “Local NGX”.
• Should you require to change the baud rate back to 4,800 at any time, the procedure to follow is
identical to that shown above, selecting 4,800 instead and clicking “Apply”.
• For more information regarding NMEA reader please download the manual from the link below.
• https://actisense.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/NMEA-Reader-EBL-Reader-User-Manual-
Issue-1.00-1.pdf
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Conversion settings using Actisense Toolkit
Please download and install Actisense Toolkit from the Actisense website using the link below.Please
ensure you download the version applicable to your own OS (64-bit or 32-bit).
• https://actisense.com/acti_software/toolkit/
• Further information regarding Toolkit functionality is available within toolkit here:
As previously mentioned on page 7, most of the normally required conversions are already set-up for
the user, but there may be an occasion when some additional conguration is required. The reasons
for this may include:
• VDO & VDM Tx conversions are required to be converted from NMEA 2000 to NMEA 0183 at 38,400
baud.
• The requirement to include a conversion not currently set (either 0183 or 2000)
• To set up a conversion for “Fast Heading”.
• To turn off a conversion which is not required.
• The requirement to reduce the volume of data which is being converted by turning off several
messages.
Using the Actisense Toolkit is the method by which this can be achieved.
Run Actisense Tookit and select the port through which you are connecting to the NGX-1(ISO or USB)
This will either be via an NGX-1-USB or a USB-serial converter depending on the device.
• The NGX-1 will now be displayed within the “Serial/CAN Device List” tab. If this is not visible please
press the “Reset views” icon to reset the default windows.
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NGX-1 NMEA 2000 Gateway
Conversion changes using Actisense Toolkit (cont’d)
• Highlight the NGX-1 and click the “Load From Device” icon on the top ribbon
• The current conguration of the NGX-1 will now be loaded into Toolkit to be displayed to the user to
allow changes to be made. This current conguration will be presented as shown below.
• There are several items shown below, and some of these are applicable to other Actisense products
only. The areas of interest are the NMEA 0183 & NMEA 2000 tabs which display the Rx & Tx
sentences and PGN’s which can be turned on/off.
• Turning on / off the Rx or Tx messages is simply a matter of adding a tick or leaving the box blank.
See page 20 for a detailed explanation of Rx & Tx conversion settings.
• You can also, at this point, alter the Tx period (the transmission rate) of the signal by clicking the
value shown next to the Tx Period(ms) box and you will be presented with a choice of new values.
• Non-periodic statements cannot be altered as they have no regular frequency.
• To commit any changes to the NGX-1, press “Send to Device” from the top ribbon
• Please see page 20 for an explanation of the Rx & Tx conversions and how to make sure that the
correct conversions are married together for proper conversion to take place.
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Explanation of Tx & Rx lists and how to congure the NGX-1
When an NGX-1 conguration is loaded from the device, the user is presented with two columns of Rx
& Tx values which represent the NMEA 0183 sentences and NMEA 2000 messages which the NGX-1 is
capable of converting. A screeshot of each is shown below.
The NGX-1 offers the user considerable exibility over what data will be converted, allowing messages
to be blocked if not required, and also control over the transmit frequency (Tx period(ms)).
The graphic below outlines the data path and direction for each of the Rx & Tx pairs, and the effect of
ticking the ‘check box’ or leaving it blank.
For a succesful conversion to take place, you need to make sure that the required NMEA 0183
sentence to be converted is not only checked on the NMEA 0183 side to receive(Rx), but also that the
corresponding PGN message is ticked for transmission onto the NMEA 2000 bus(Tx). A PGN cannot
be transmitted onto the NMEA 2000 bus if it has not rst been received from the 0183 device. The
same convention applies for conversions from NMEA 2000 to NMEA 0183.
Using this conguration method allows the user very precise control of exactly which data is passed
through the NGX-1, helping increase bandwidth, and eliminating unrequired conversions. A full list of
all the conversions which the NGX-1 caters for can be found on the Actisense website using this link.
https://actisense.com/downloads/?type=&product=.pro-16546
Rx
0183 Sentences
to the 0183 device
Tx
PGN Transmitted
PGN Dropped
Tx
Rx
PGN Received
PGN Blocked
0183 Received
0183 Blocked
0183 Transmitted
0183 Dropped
NGX-1
Convert NMEA 0183
to NMEA 2000
Convert NMEA 2000
to NMEA 0183
NMEA 2000 PGN’s
from 2000 bus
NMEA 2000 PGN’s
to 2000 bus
0183 Sentences
from the 0183 device